monologist
UK[məˈnɒlədʒɪst]US[məˈnɑːlədʒɪst]
n
A person who performs a monologue.
n
A person who monopolizes conversation or speaks at length without allowing others to participate.
Morpheme Breakdown
mono
log
ist
mono
one, single
log
speech, discourse
ist
person who practices
Etymology
The word 'monologist' is built upon the Greek-derived concept of a 'monologue,' which literally means "speaking alone." The first element, mono- (single), combined with -logue (from logos, speech), creates a term for a long, uninterrupted speech by one person. The suffix -ist, indicating an agent, was then appended to form 'monologist,' specifying the person who delivers such a speech. This etymological path reflects a clear logical progression from the ancient components—single speech—to the modern performer or conversational dominator, encapsulating the idea of solo verbal performance.
Analysis
Structure: mono (one, single) + log (speech, discourse) + ist (person who practices)
mono: From Greek monos, meaning "alone, single, sole." It functions as a combining form indicating singularity.
log: From Greek logos, meaning "word, speech, discourse, reason." It functions as a root denoting speech or study.
ist: From Greek -istēs and Latin -ista, a suffix forming agent nouns, meaning "a person who practices or is concerned with something."
Examples
The comedian was a brilliant monologist, holding the audience's attention for a full hour with his stories.
At the meeting, he became a tedious monologist, barely pausing for questions or comments.
She trained as a dramatic monologist, specializing in the works of contemporary playwrights.